The South African Police Service (SAPS) has made significant progress in the investigation into the murder of Mboneli Vesele, the bodyguard of Fort Hare Vice Chancellor Professor Sakhele Buhlungu. Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the SAPS national spokesperson, confirmed the arrest of two hitmen believed to be linked to the tragic killing. This breakthrough follows an ongoing investigation aided by valuable information from the public, the media, and social media communities.
Mboneli Vesele was fatally shot on January 6, 2023, while sitting in a vehicle outside Professor Buhlungu’s home in Alice, Eastern Cape. Vesele had been waiting to accompany the Vice Chancellor when he was ambushed and killed in broad daylight. The murder of the prominent university official's bodyguard shocked the community and raised concerns about security around high-profile individuals.
The investigation took a significant step forward when, on November 15, 2024, SAPS released the images of three suspected hitmen believed to be involved in the murder. The suspects were identified as Bafana Chiliza, Nkosiyazi “Dipopoz” Maphumulo, and Siphiwo “Spijojo” Jejane. Authorities issued a J50 warrant for their arrest, urging the public to come forward with any information that could help locate them.
On June 21, 2025, after receiving credible intelligence and tips from community members, SAPS acted on the lead and raided Zakkariya Park in Johannesburg. Two of the three suspects, Bafana Chiliza and Nkosiyazi Maphumulo, were arrested without incident. Both are now in police custody and will face charges related to the murder.
General Fannie Masemola, the National Commissioner of SAPS, publicly expressed his gratitude for the collective effort that led to the arrests. “The role of the public, media, and social media community in assisting our investigators cannot be overstated. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration when communities stand together to combat crime,” said General Masemola.
The police force has been commended for its ongoing commitment to bringing justice to the victims. Since 2023, a total of twelve individuals have been arrested in connection to the murder at Fort Hare University, with some still in custody. The investigation remains active as authorities continue to search for the third suspect, Siphiwo Jejane.
SAPS is still urging anyone with information on Jejane's whereabouts to come forward. Warrant Officer Nkosi (0825575789) and Sergeant Mokoena (0818517758) have been designated as contacts for tip-offs.
The two arrested suspects, Bafana Chiliza and Nkosiyazi Maphumulo, are expected to appear in Alice Court today. SAPS remains committed to ensuring that all those involved in the crime are brought to justice.
Brigadier Mathe, speaking on behalf of SAPS, emphasized the importance of continued community cooperation in the fight against crime. "The support we receive from our communities is invaluable, and we urge people to continue assisting us to ensure that all suspects are held accountable," Mathe said.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus now shifts to apprehending Siphiwo Jejane, as well as ensuring that the broader network behind the murder is fully exposed.
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